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Abstract:

A method and system for monitoring and controlling driver performance in
a controlled driving environment. A portable information device is
provided to a driver who registers with a server computer for controlling
vehicle operation in the driving environment. A record for the driver is
stored in a database associated with the server computer. A vehicle is
activated using the portable information device for at least an amount of
time exceeding a preset threshold value. A speed level and a safety level
for the vehicle are dynamically set based on the driver's performance in
the driving environment. The driver's performance is monitored in the
controlled driving environment and each driving violation that occurs is
determined. Violation points are assigned to the driver based on each
driving violation and the violation points are added to the driver record
stored in the database. The speed level is set to a value less than a
threshold speed level if the violation points stored for the driver
exceeds a threshold for violation points.

Claims:

1. A method for monitoring and controlling driver performance in a
controlled driving environment comprising: generating and storing a
record for each registered driver in a database associated with a server
computer; receiving a signal at the server computer from a vehicle
controller to determine a driver's performance level and driving time
balance from the stored driver record; activating a vehicle for at least
an amount of time exceeding a preset threshold value based on the driving
time balance; dynamically setting a speed level and a safety level for
the vehicle based on the driver's performance level in the driving
environment; monitoring the driver's performance in the controlled
driving environment and determining each driving violation that occurs;
assigning violation points to the driver based on each driving violation
and adding the violation points to the driver record stored in the
database; and setting the speed level to a value less than a threshold
speed level if the violation points stored for the driver exceeds a
violation points threshold.

2. The method for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
1 further comprising determining if an onboard reader in the vehicle
recognizes a driver's portable information device provided to the driver
for enabling vehicle activation.

3. The method for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
1 further comprising providing a touch screen interface in the vehicle
for displaying driving time remaining, accumulated violation points, and
a safety level.

4. The method for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
1 wherein the safety level represents an accumulated amount of driving
time without incurring any violation points.

5. The method for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
4 wherein dynamically setting the speed level comprises monitoring the
safety level and automatically increasing the speed level when the safety
level meets or exceeds a safety level threshold and automatically
decreasing the speed level when the safety level falls below the safety
level threshold.

6. The method for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
1 further comprising remotely activating a plurality of sensors
positioned on or in proximity to a stop sign to detect the presence of an
approaching vehicle in a driving zone near the stop sign.

7. The method for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
6 wherein the plurality of sensors detects a vehicle identifier and speed
and transmits the vehicle identifier and speed to the server computer.

8. The method for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
7 wherein the server computer transmits a violation signal to the vehicle
controller which generates a warning signal on the touch screen display
and activates a signal light on the vehicle.

9. The method for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
1 further comprising activating a blind spot vision system in the vehicle
automatically when the vehicle is activated by the vehicle controller.

10. The method for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
9 further comprising streaming live video signals of the driver's blind
spots from at least one camera positioned on the vehicle to an onboard
processor for display on the touch screen display.

11. A system for monitoring and controlling driver performance in a
controlled driving environment comprising: at least one server computer
and a wireless transceiver associated with the at least one server
computer, the computer being configured to control operation of a vehicle
in a driving environment via the wireless transceiver; at least one
storage device for storing driver records for each driver registered with
the server computer; and an embedded mobile client in the vehicle, the
embedded mobile client including a microprocessor having monitoring and
control firmware embedded in a memory, a wireless transceiver configured
to communicate with the server computer, a speed controller device
connected to the microprocessor and configured to automatically control a
speed of the vehicle during operation in the driving environment, a
portable information device reader configured to receive driver
information stored on a portable information device provided to each
registered driver in order to activate the vehicle via a signal from the
microprocessor, and a touch screen user interface configured to display a
driving time remaining, an accumulated violation points, and a safety
level for the driver.

12. The system for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
11 wherein the server computer dynamically sets a speed level and a
safety level for the vehicle based on the driver's performance level in
the driving environment.

13. The system for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
11 wherein the server computer monitors the driver's performance in the
controlled driving environment and determines each driving violation that
occurs.

14. The system for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
11 wherein the server computer assigns violation points to the driver
based on each violation and adds the violation points to the driver
record stored in a database on the storage device via a wireless
communications link.

15. The system for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
11 wherein the server computer transmits a signal to the microprocessor
in the embedded client to set the vehicle speed level to a value less
than a threshold level if the violation points stored for the driver
exceeds a violation points threshold.

16. The system for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
12 wherein the server dynamically sets the safety level by determining an
accumulated amount of driving time without incurring any violation
points.

17. The system for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
16 wherein the server dynamically sets the speed level by monitoring the
safety level and automatically increasing the speed level when the safety
level meets or exceeds a safety level threshold and automatically
decreasing the speed level when the safety level falls below the safety
level threshold.

18. The system for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
11 further comprising a plurality of sensors positioned on or in
proximity to a stop sign for detecting the presence of an approaching
vehicle in a driving zone near the stop sign, wherein the plurality of
sensors detects a vehicle identifier and speed and transmits the vehicle
identifier and speed to the server computer.

19. The system for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
18 wherein the server computer transmits a violation signal to the
microprocessor in the embedded client which generates a warning signal on
the touch screen display and activates a signal light on the vehicle.

20. The system for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
11 further comprising a blind spot vision system in the vehicle which is
activated automatically when the vehicle is activated by the vehicle
controller.

21. The system for monitoring and controlling driver performance of claim
20 further comprising at least one camera positioned on the vehicle for
streaming live video signals of the driver's blind spots to the
microprocessor for display on the touch screen display.

22. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium for monitoring and
controlling driver performance in a controlled driving environment when
executed on a computing system, the computer readable storage medium
having computer readable code embedded therein, the computer readable
storage medium comprising: program instructions for generating and
storing a record for each registered driver in a database associated with
a server computer; program instructions for processing a query from a
vehicle controller to determine a driver's performance level and driving
time balance from the stored driver record; program instructions for
generating a signal to activate a vehicle for at least an amount of time
exceeding a preset threshold value based on the driving time balance;
program instructions for generating a signal to dynamically set a speed
level and a safety level for the vehicle based on the driver's
performance level in the driving environment; program instructions for
processing monitoring information on the driver's performance in the
controlled driving environment; program instructions for assigning
violation points to the driver based on each driving violation and adding
the violation points to the driver record stored in the database; and
program instructions for generating a signal to set the speed level to a
value less than a threshold speed level if the violation points stored
for the driver exceed a violation points threshold.

Description:

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 61/325,135, filed on Apr. 16, 2010. The
specification and drawings of the provisional patent application are
specifically incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Embodiments of the invention relate generally to training of young
individuals on safe operation of vehicles in a controlled driving
environment. More particularly, the embodiments relate to monitoring and
improving the performance of a young driver operating a vehicle equipped
with embedded monitoring and control apparatus in communication with at
least one host computer located within the controlled driving
environment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] In one embodiment, a method is provided for monitoring and
controlling driver performance in a controlled driving environment. A
portable information device is provided to a driver who registers with a
server computer for controlling vehicle operation in the driving
environment. A record for the driver is stored in a database associated
with the server computer. A vehicle is activated using the portable
information device for at least an amount of time exceeding a preset
threshold value. A speed level and a safety level for the vehicle are
dynamically set based on the driver's performance in the driving
environment. The driver's performance is monitored in the controlled
driving environment and each driving violation that occurs is determined.
Violation points are assigned to the driver based on each driving
violation and the violation points are added to the driver record stored
in the database. The speed level is set to a value less than a threshold
speed level if the violation points stored for the driver exceed a
violation points threshold.

[0004] In one embodiment, a system is provided for monitoring and
controlling driver performance in a controlled driving environment. The
system includes at least one server computer for controlling operation of
a vehicle in the driving environment via a wireless transceiver at the
server location. The system also includes at least one storage device for
storing driver records for each driver registered with the server
computer. An embedded mobile client in the vehicle includes a
microprocessor having monitoring and control firmware embedded in a
memory, a wireless transceiver for communicating with the server
computer, a speed controller device connected to the microprocessor for
automatically controlling a speed of the vehicle during operation in the
driving environment, a portable information device reader for receiving
driver information stored on a portable information device provided to
each registered driver in order to activate the vehicle via a signal from
the microprocessor, and a touch screen user interface for displaying a
driving time remaining, an accumulated violation points, and a safety
level for the driver.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] These and other advantages and aspects of the embodiments of the
invention will become apparent and more readily appreciated from the
following detailed description of the embodiments taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings, as follows.

[0006] FIGS. 1A-1D provide an overview of the processes associated with
the controlled driving park in an exemplary embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates the system architecture of the driver training
system in an exemplary embodiment.

[0008]FIG. 3 illustrates the processing logic for controlling and
monitoring driver performance and adherence to traffic safety rules in an
exemplary embodiment.

[0009]FIG. 4 illustrates the processing logic for the smart stop
monitoring feature in an exemplary embodiment.

[0010]FIG. 5 illustrates the processing logic for the blind spot vision
feature in an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] FIGS. 6A-6E illustrate the processing logic for the vehicle control
software in an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 7 illustrates a circuit diagram for a speed controller that
can be used to control vehicle speed in an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 8 illustrates the processing logic for determining the safety
level associated with a driver's data record in an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] The following description is provided as an enabling teaching of
exemplary embodiments. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize
that many changes can be made to the embodiments described, while still
obtaining the beneficial results. It will also be apparent that some of
the desired benefits of the embodiments described can be obtained by
selecting some of the features of the embodiments without utilizing other
features. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many
modifications and adaptations to the embodiments described are possible
and may even be desirable in certain circumstances, and are a part of the
invention. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of
the principles of the embodiments and not in limitation thereof, since
the scope of the invention is defined solely by the claims.

[0015] The disclosed embodiments provide a way to teach children how to
drive a vehicle safely and how to apply driving ethics and etiquette in a
controlled driving environment while making the whole learning and
driving experience interesting and enjoyable to the young drivers.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, a driver swipes his driving park issued
portable information device (e.g., magnetic ID card) in a portable
information device reader in the vehicle. As used herein, a vehicle
refers generically to an electronic cart or modified golf cart that is
used by drivers in the controlled driving environment, though other kinds
of vehicles may be utilized. The information stored on the driver's
portable information device is collected by the vehicle controller which
sends a query to the data base server and receives a credits/units
balance from the driver record as well as the driving expertise level
according to a set of driving courses and tests that a driver takes in a
simulator prior to driving a vehicle. The credits/units balance
determines if the vehicle can be activated and how long a driver can
drive the vehicle. The driver's expertise level determines the maximum
speed that a driver can drive the vehicle. The controller automatically
sets the maximum speed in the vehicle control. A flashing light is
installed on top of the vehicle that lights according to different sets
of light flashing patterns, signaling the near end of the driving time,
and/or other traffic/driving limitation, e.g., driver can or cannot drive
on the highway. The light signal also warns a police officer in the
driving park to issue violation tickets to the driver and/or the light
signal warns the safety teams to act in a timely fashion and reroute the
driver to the proper driving zone. A police officer can issue, through a
handheld device, driving warnings and violations to the driver and record
them into the driver's driving history database record. The driver pays a
penalty in any combination of driving time, units, and/or degraded
maximum speed depending on the type of violation.

Overview of Controlled Driving Park Operation

[0017] FIGS. 1A-1D provide an overview of the processes associated with
the controlled driving park in an exemplary embodiment. A driver must go
through a set of five computer simulated driving lessons and exams, and
upon passing the driving exams and based on the driving expertise level
acquired, a driver can drive a vehicle at predetermined maximum speeds,
with or without an accompanying adult.

[0018] A customer walks in to the welcome desk in the driving park which,
as illustrated in FIG. 1A, includes a number of amusements that can be
enjoyed by the individual driver and accompanying adult. If the customer
is new, he will be issued a portable information device (sometimes
referred to herein as the "ID Device") such as, but not limited to, an
identification card, which identification card may include, for example,
any of a smart card, RFID tag, magnetic card, or bar coded card having
the customer's picture, name, date of birth, school, address, organ
donor, blood type, sex, exam date and driving park location code.
Portable information device refers broadly to any type of device capable
of storing personal and driving park information concerning the driver.
In an exemplary embodiment, the portable information device may include
an embedded microprocessor and non-volatile memory. In some embodiments,
the portable information device may include a receiver/transmitter. Three
different categories of customers can be accommodated, as explained in
the following paragraphs.

[0019] A member already registered with the driving park and having a
portable information device can, in a manner appropriate for the device
(for example, swiping an ID card), update his portable information device
with information stored in a central driving park database and enter the
driving park. The "updating" takes place at a device reader that
appropriately communicates with the personal information device. An
appropriate reader is to be located in the vehicle and/or in stationary
locations around the park. The parents who accompany the young drivers do
not have to have driving park portable information devices; however, at
least one parent must accompany a driver, and no adults are allowed in
the driving park unless they accompany the driver.

[0020] First time visitors who have pre-registered and/or have made a
reservation, and already have their information uploaded on the driving
park web site will be ready to have their pictures taken and their
portable information device (e.g., identification cards) created and
issued. A designated host welcomes the visitors and explains the required
procedures that must be adhered to in order to utilize the features of
the driving park.

[0021] The third category of customers is a walk-in customer who must
register with the diving park upon entry in order to obtain an
identification device. Once the portable information device is issued,
drivers with reservations will be admitted on time and drivers without
reservation will be admitted on a first come, first serve basis.

[0022] Once the portable information device is issued, the holder can
access the driving park web site, log in and take the driving tests;
starting with level one and going up to the last level. When the portable
information device holder passes the first level, he will be qualified to
take the next level test until all levels are passed. The driver then can
apply for the driving park driver's license.

[0023] FIG. 1B illustrates the various activities involved in getting a
driver from the registration desk to the vehicle. FIG. 1c illustrates the
various activities involved in the "drive cart" process of FIG. 1B. FIG.
1D illustrates the various activities involved in the "enable cart
controls" process of FIG. 1c.

[0024] A class room is located in proximity to the police department, and
is equipped with a big screen television and DVD connection, along with
multiple kiosks for taking driving tests. The main building in the
driving park also houses a restaurant, an arcade, a police department,
restrooms, class rooms, and souvenir shop and administration offices.

[0025] All registered drivers can charge driving time to their portable
information devices at the welcome desk, or at any of the self service
kiosks, or at the point-of-sale (POS) amusements in the diving park. The
ID device can be used to purchase food, play games in the arcade, or
drive a vehicle. Regardless of the driving time added to the ID device at
any of the points of sale (POS), in order to operate a vehicle the driver
must complete a minimum learning process as described below.

[0026] Using the portable information device, a driver will go to the
arcade and drive a vehicle simulator. The vehicle simulator will generate
a report at the end of the driving experience. If the driver drives the
vehicle simulator a minimum number of minutes (e.g., 15 minutes) without
incurring any driving violations, he will be granted permission to drive
a vehicle in the driving park. The permission to drive appears on the
simulator screen and will automatically update the driver's stored
database record. The portable information device can now activate a
vehicle. If the driver fails the simulator test, he will have to keep
taking the simulator test until he passes. The driver can take the
simulator test repeatedly until he passes.

[0027] Maintained as part of each driver's database record, and associated
with the driver's respective portable information device is an account
reflecting the above mentioned credits/units balance. In one embodiment,
in order to drive a vehicle, the driver must have a minimum number of
credits/points, which is equivalent to a number of minutes, for example
at least 15 points which is equivalent to 15 minutes, of driving time.
Drivers may check their available credits/units at any POS or any kiosk
in the driving park. In other embodiments, fewer or more points may be
required in order to operate a vehicle.

[0028] Once the driver has a validated ID device for driving in the
driving park, he can proceed to the vehicle leasing office where his
portable information device will be checked and a vehicle will be
assigned. When the ID device is read by the device reader (for example,
when an ID card is swiped in an appropriate card reader), a driver will
receive driving time for the assigned vehicle based on the points in
his/her account. The driver must have the minimum required credits on
his/her ID device in order to be able to start the vehicle; but if a
driver completes a level of speed without any violation he will be
rewarded an additional number of credits and the extra speed. If a driver
commits any traffic rule infraction, he will be pulled over by a driving
park officer and receive a ticket or a warning. Both tickets and warnings
will go on the driving record and the driver cannot receive more than one
warning of any type. A ticket will mean, for example, disabling the
driver's car for a number of minutes that goes on his driver records
based on the level of violation, reducing his safety level, and losing
the extra free 15 minutes reward.

[0029] A charging device is provided in every vehicle, in order to
activate the vehicle instantly when the ID device is read. The touch
screen on the dashboard in the vehicle will display a message to the
driver to press the "On" button to start the vehicle. The system will
automatically debit the driver's account the minimum number of minutes
and will display the driving time available on the touch screen. As long
as the ID device is inserted in the charging device, the associated
account is being debited at a certain rate per minute. Five minutes
before the driver's account runs out of credits/units (and thus out of
time), the onboard processor signals a light on the top of the vehicle;
two minutes later it will turn into a flashing light. A message will be
posted on the dashboard screen informing the driver of the time left. If
the vehicle is not returned to the parking area on time or is left on a
street, the driver will get a ticket for an "abandon and run" violation.
The system will automatically generates an email to the driver informing
him to expect a debit on his account due to not returning the car at the
proper time.

[0030] Once the driver gets in the vehicle and causes his ID device to be
read, the console screen welcomes him and shows him how many minutes are
available to him. Once the driver obtains the driving park driver's
license, he will earn more points for driving by payment of additional
money.

[0031] The driver presses start to start the vehicle for a minimum driving
time of, for example, fifteen minutes. After, for example, 15 minutes of
driving has elapsed, the driver can take the vehicle back and stop the
accrual of charges by pressing the "Park & Stop" button on the touch
screen user interface.

[0032] When the driver starts his first, for example, 15 minutes of
driving time, he must pay close attention to the time meter on the touch
screen display console. As long as the driver has a green light on the
console, he can continue normal driving. However, once the orange light
illuminates, the driver has to start thinking about an exit strategy. If
the orange light starts flashing and the red light then illuminates,
there is less than, for example, two minutes of driving time left. The
driver either has to add driving time or return the vehicle to the
leasing parking area. A penalty will be given to the driver who runs out
of points before returning to the leasing area. The penalty will also be
emailed to the driver in case he did not have enough credits on his card.

[0033] When the driver has completed, for example, 120 minutes of
successful driving, along with all required tests, he will be eligible
for a driving park driver's license. The driver is not allowed to drive
on the driving park advanced driver's road until he has completed the
driving test which includes several chapters. The driving test is
available for all members on the driving park website. All levels must be
taken and passed before the driver is eligible for a driver park driver's
license. Once all chapters are completed, the driver will be interviewed
by a driving park officer and, based on positive interview results, the
driver will be granted a driver park driver's license.

[0034] If the driver has any violation points on his driving record, he
will be warned at the start time. Violation points are added to a
violation meter on the touch screen console indicating the level of
violations. Once the driver has driven, for example, 120 minutes without
any violations, all previous violation points will be removed. The speed
of the vehicle will be based on the driver's test results. The vehicle
can be operated, for example, at three different speeds. It takes, for
example, 60 minutes of safe driving without any violation points to raise
the speed level of the vehicle.

[0035] In one embodiment, any violation points go on the driver's record
stored in the database and automatically reduces the driving time meter
by, for example, three times the value of a violation. For example,
running a stop sign could add 5 points to the violation meter driver's
record and reduce the Safety Level (SL) by 15 points. The safety level is
displayed on the touch screen display. For example, a driver who has a
safety level of 70 has been driving at level 2 for ten minutes; however,
if he gets a ticket for running a stop sign, the safety level will be
reduced to 55 which take the driver back to level 1. At a safety level
of, for example, 60, the speed level changes from speed one to speed two,
and at a safety level of 120, the speed goes from speed two to speed
three.

[0036] The driver can take the web-based tests to lower his violation
points, for example, by 2 points per level, or a total of 10 points for
all five levels. Performing a community service can also reduce the
driver's violation points at the rate of, for example, 1 point/hour. The
driver must check with driving park management for approved services.
After, for example, 120 minutes of safe driving without any violations,
the driver's record will automatically update and erase any previous
violation points. The driver can also be rewarded with additional driving
time. Every time there is a change to the driver's record, he will
receive a message on the touch screen console in the vehicle informing
him of the update. After, for example, 60 minutes of continuous safe
driving, the vehicle speed will go from speed level 1 to speed level 2,
and after, for example, 120 minutes of safe driving time to speed level
3. After, for example, 120 minutes of safe driving and successful passing
of all tests, the driver will be eligible for a driving park driver's
license. When the driver receives the driving park driver's license, he
will be able to drive on the highway that loops around the driving park
and on other restricted roads, depending on the particular design of the
driving park.

[0037] The patrol officer has a handheld device that enables him to read
the driver's information by, for example, typing the plate number on his
device, add information to the driver's file, and debit the driver's card
for the value assigned to each driving violation, as required. The patrol
officers have a card that activates the vehicle for the time used only.
The driving feature can be cancelled in any vehicle in order to stop
reckless drivers or drivers talking on a cell phone.

[0038] Every time the driver violates a traffic rule, the patrol officer
will pull him over and give the driver a penalty including points that
are determined from his card and are added to his record. The officers on
duty may opt to give the driver a warning, but they cannot give any
driver more than one warning per type of violation. If the driver gets
over, for example, 25 violation points, his vehicle will go to a minimal
speed, which is basically below level one. A message on the console will
inform the driver to update his record before he can activate a vehicle
again. The driver must then talk to a patrol officer to reactivate his
card.

[0039] The table below illustrates the violation points that can be
assigned for various driving violations in an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates the system architecture of the driver training
system in an exemplary embodiment. The client-server architecture
includes an embedded mobile client system in a modified vehicle. A
microprocessor in the embedded system controls operation of the vehicle
through firmware embedded in a memory of the microprocessor, and
communicates via a wireless receiver/transmitter with a plurality of
server computers located in an operations center (facility network) of
the driving park. The embedded client system further includes a speed
controller device, an ID device reader, and a touch screen display
console. The operations center includes the plurality of servers and at
least one storage device for storing the driver records. One of the
servers can be a host computer that directly communicates via wireless
transmission with the embedded system in each vehicle. The plurality of
servers can also include at least one database server, an administration
server, and other servers providing additional functionality, along with
the software needed to communicate with the embedded systems and operate
the servers and driving record database. Registration and other
workstations (including kiosks and point-of-sale terminals) are part of
the system architecture. The workstations also enable drivers to access
the driving park web site to take the online series of driving tests. The
system further includes one or more handheld devices used by driving park
police officers to communicate wirelessly with the operations center and
vehicles. The handheld devices can be used to add information to the
driver's file and debit the driver's account for the value assigned to
each driving violation.

Processing Logic

[0041]FIG. 3 illustrates the processing logic for controlling and
monitoring driver performance and adherence to traffic safety rules in an
exemplary embodiment. The initial step in the process is for the driver
to register with the controlled driving park officials, as indicated in
block 300. The registered driver is provided with a portable information
device such as a photo identification card that can be similar to a
driver's license in appearance, and that includes a magnetic stripe or
bar code containing pertinent information about the new driver.
Alternatively, the portable information device could be a smart card with
an embedded chip containing pertinent driver information. In another
embodiment, the portable information device could be a radio frequency
identification (RFID) card containing pertinent driver information. In
one embodiment, the pertinent driver information could include name, date
of birth, school, address, organ donor status, blood type, sex,
examination date, and identification of the location of the controlled
driving park. After registration, the portable information device will be
used for reentry to the controlled driving park and to add and store
driving time information that is purchased. In order to acquire driving
time on the card, the card can be swiped at various kiosks in the
controlled driving facility to purchase minutes of driving time. The
minimum driving time that can be purchased is a preset threshold value
that also corresponds to the minimum driving time that a driver can
receive upon successful completion of a driving experience on a vehicle
simulator. In one embodiment, the preset threshold value/minimum driving
time can be 15 minutes. Factors that can affect the preset threshold
value include driving conditions and number of persons waiting to drive a
vehicle. Vehicle simulators can be kept in a driving arcade within the
controlled driving park. The driver cannot access a vehicle until this
minimum threshold time value is obtained from the system.

[0042] Once the driver is registered with the system, he can proceed to
the driving arcade and swipe his portable information device at a
portable information device reader associated with the vehicle simulator
to identify himself to the system. The system will track the driver's
performance in the vehicle simulator. If the driver achieves the minimum
threshold value of minutes without a driving violation, the system will
automatically inform the driver that he can proceed to the vehicle
leasing area to operate a vehicle. A report is generated for the driver
at the end of the vehicle simulator driving experience. The driver's
record is stored in a database associated with a wireless computer
communications system, including one or more server computers and
wireless devices including handheld computers and other wireless devices.
This step of the process is indicated in block 304.

[0043] Following the driving experience in the vehicle simulator, the
system will determine if the driver has achieved the minimum threshold
period without a driving violation as indicated in decision block 308. If
the driver has achieved the minimum threshold period without a driving
violation, a success message is displayed to the driver and the driver's
record and identification card are updated, as indicated in block 312. If
the driver has not achieved the minimum threshold period without a
driving violation, the driver can continue the driving experience in the
vehicle simulator. This is indicated by the loop back to block 304.
Alternatively, the driver can also take one or more online driving
instruction lessons and exams to improve his knowledge and skill before
returning to the vehicle simulator.

[0044] After achieving the minimum threshold period without a violation
the driver can proceed to the vehicle leasing area where the driver will
be assigned a vehicle to drive. The driver swipes/inserts his
identification card into a reader inside the vehicle to activate the
vehicle automatically. In decision block 316, a determination is made if
the identification card swiped/inserted into the vehicle's onboard card
reader is recognized by the system. If it does not recognize the driver
or validate the driver's credentials, the driver can return to the
registration area to discuss his status with a controlled driving park
official. A new identification card could be created to replace a faulty
card if the identification card fails to update the driver's status with
the system. The problem with failing to activate the vehicle could be the
result of insufficient credits earned in the vehicle simulator, or not
having a sufficient pre-paid minutes balance on the card.

[0045] If the system does recognize the driver portable information device
in decision block 316, the vehicle will be automatically activated if the
amount of time purchased is enough so that the driver can start and
operate the vehicle on the streets of the controlled driving park. This
step is indicated in block 320. For example, in one embodiment, at least
15 minutes of driving time would need to be purchased in order to
activate the vehicle. The user may be able to add more driving time
directly through the portable information device reader user interface in
the vehicle. Once activated, the system automatically sets the speed
level based on the driver's safety level and violation points that are
stored in the driver record stored in the database. This step is
indicated in block 324. The system provides, for example, three
progressive speed levels based on the driver's record. For example, in
one embodiment, the speed levels can be 5, 10, and 15 miles per hour,
respectively. The driver's safety level will determine the maximum speed
permitted by the driver. In other embodiments, more levels and different
speeds could be set. The safety and age of the driver, as well as the
vehicle type, are factors in determining the speed levels that are set. A
touch screen user interface display is provided in each vehicle to inform
the driver of his driving time remaining, the accumulated violation
points, and the driver's safety level, as indicated in block 328.

[0046] As the driver drives the vehicle along the streets of the
controlled driving park, his operation of the vehicle will be monitored
by a patrol officer who is patrolling the driving park. This step is
indicated in block 332. One advantage of having a patrol officer in the
controlled driving park is to provide a more realistic driving experience
to the driver. In one embodiment, the driver's operation of a vehicle can
be monitored on computer displays in an operations control room. Cameras
in the controlled driving park transmit digital video wirelessly to the
computer servers in the operations control room.

[0047] As the patrol officer patrols the controlled driving park, he will
determine if any of the drivers in the vehicles being monitored has
violated a safety rule. This step is indicated in decision block 336. If
a safety violation has been observed, the patrol officer will stop the
driver and issue a citation or warning. If the officer issues a citation,
the officer will use a wireless handheld device to transmit the safety
violation type to the servers in the operations room. The violation and
corresponding points will be added to the driver's stored record in the
database. The violation points will also be transmitted to the vehicle
user interface display to inform the driver of his new total violation
points. This step is indicated in block 340. In one embodiment, the
officer's handheld can automatically transmit the violation points to an
onboard embedded processor in the vehicle that will add the new points to
the driver's previous points total.

[0048] In decision block 344, a determination is made if the driver's
activation points exceed a threshold value. In one embodiment, the
threshold value could be 25 points. In other embodiments, a higher or
lower threshold value could be used. Violation points that exceed the
threshold value or expiration of the allowed driving time will cause the
speed of the vehicle to drop to a very low level that will enable the
driver to return the vehicle to the vehicle leasing area. For example, in
one embodiment, the low level speed could be set to 2 miles per hour.
Once the vehicle is returned to the vehicle leasing area, the vehicle can
be deactivated by a stop button on the touch screen user interface. These
steps are indicated in block 348.

[0049]FIG. 4 illustrates the processing logic for the smart stop
monitoring feature in an exemplary embodiment. This feature can be
combined with the monitoring and control system described herein. In
order to use this feature, the smart stop monitoring system must be
activated as indicated in block 400. One or more RFID sensors positioned
on or in proximity to a stop sign can detect the presence of an
approaching vehicle in a zone extending from the location of the sensors
to an area that the approaching vehicle will pass through. The RFID
sensors are activated remotely from the server computers in the
operations control room via the wireless communications network.

[0050] In system operation with the smart stop monitoring feature
activated, the vehicle passes the stop sign RFID sensors as indicated in
block 410. The RFID sensors detect the vehicle identifier and transmit
the vehicle ID to a host computer (e.g., one of the server computers) as
indicated in block 420. The host computer then requests the speed value
from the vehicle in block 430. A determination is made if the speed is
zero in decision block 440, meaning that the vehicle has come to a
complete stop. If the speed is determined to be zero, the driver can
continue to operate the vehicle in the controlled driving park without
interruption, as indicated in block 450. If the vehicle does not come to
a complete stop, the host sends a violation signal to the vehicle
controller as indicated in block 460. The onboard processor in the
vehicle will then signal a warning on the touch screen console display in
the vehicle and will also turn on the signal light on top of the vehicle.
These steps are indicated in block 470.

[0051]FIG. 5 illustrates the processing logic for the blind spot vision
feature in an exemplary embodiment. This feature can be combined with the
monitoring and control system and the smart stop monitoring feature
described herein. In order to use this feature, the blind spot vision
system must be activated as indicated in block 500. In one embodiment,
the blind spot vision feature can be activated automatically when the
vehicle is activated by an authorized driver. An authorized driver is an
individual who has successfully completed the requirements for operating
a vehicle in the controlled driving park. Once activated, the blind spot
vision feature will detect actuation of the turn signal lever in the
vehicle as indicated in block 510. The lever will be actuated by the
driver to signal a lane change or a turn at an intersection in accordance
with the customary rules of the road for safe and legal driving. At least
two cameras are positioned on the vehicle to stream live video signals of
the driver's left and right blind spots. The cameras stream the live
video to the touch screen console display in the vehicle to make the
driver aware of any vehicles that are in his blind spots prior to
changing lanes.

[0052] The driver will flip the turn signal indicator either up or down to
signal a lane change. In decision block 520, a determination is made if
the driver has indicated a left turn or lane change. If a left turn is
signaled, the video camera on the left side of the vehicle will generate
a video signal that is transmitted to the onboard processor. The
processor receives the video signal as indicated in block 540 and sends
the video signal to the console screen where it is displayed to the
driver as indicated in block 560. If a right turn is signaled, the video
camera on the right side of the vehicle will generate a video signal that
is transmitted to the onboard processor. The processor receives the video
signal as indicated in block 550 and sends the video signal to the
console screen where it is displayed to the driver as indicated in block
560. If the driver actuates the signal lever but then turns it off
without a lane change, the blind spot vision system processing logic will
loop from decision blocks 520, 530 back to block 510.

[0053] FIGS. 6A-6E illustrate the processing logic for the vehicle control
software in an exemplary embodiment. As discussed previously, the driver
registers with the driving park using a photo ID, and receives a portable
information device (e.g., magnetic or smart card) that is used to access
the driving park and amusements including the vehicles. This step is
indicated in block 600 of FIG. 6A. The driver transfers money, for
example using cash or credit, to his park account, which is the account
accessed by the driver's portable information device, as indicated in
block 604. The amount transferred is represented as driving points on the
driver's account. In an alternate embodiment, the processing logic can
determine if the driver already has a driver's license for the driving
park and, if so, whether the driver has accumulated less than a
predetermined threshold number of violation points (e.g. <10 points).
In this case, the driver can receive a discount on money transferred to
his credits/units account balance. After transferring money to his
account, the driver can then practice driving on vehicle simulators, as
indicated in block 608. In decision block 612, a test is made to
determine if the driver has successfully passed the safe driving
requirements of the simulator. If not, the driver can continue to
practice on the simulator. If the driver has completed a minimum required
safe driving time on the simulator, a test is made in decision block 616
to determine if he has a minimum amount of driving points on account. If
not, the driver will have to transfer additional money to his account
before he can access a vehicle. If the account has at least the minimum
amount of driving points, the assigned vehicle will be activated by
reading of the driver's ID device at the device reader of the onboard
system in the vehicle. This step is indicated in block 620. For a first
time driver, the speed level is set to speed level #1 (e.g., 5 mph), as
indicated in block 624. The speed level is controlled by the onboard
processor using relays in the speed controller device as shown in FIG. 7.
The driver can now start and drive the vehicle on permitted roads in the
driving park. This step is shown in block 628.

[0054] As the driver drives the vehicle, he may commit one or more driving
violations. A test for driving violations is performed in block 632.
Depending on the severity of the violation, a different number of
violation points are added to his stored driving record.

[0055]FIG. 6B illustrates the processing logic associated with
controlling vehicle speed for safe driving. If no violations are detected
in decision block 632, successful safe driving for a speed adjustment
interval, for example, 60 minutes results in a change to speed level #2
as indicated in block 636. The embedded processor sends a signal to the
speed controller to set the speed level to speed level #2, as indicated
in block 640. In some embodiments, safe driving for over 60 minutes, with
no warnings or violations on the driver's record could result in extra
driving time being added to the driver's card (e.g., 10 minutes).
Continued successful safe driving for a subsequent speed adjust interval,
for example, a total driving time of 120 minutes, results in a change to
the next level, for example, speed level #3, as indicated in block 644.
The embedded processor sends a signal to the speed controller to set the
speed level to speed level #3, as indicated in block 648. In some
embodiments, safe driving for more than the two speed adjust intervals,
e.g., over 120 minutes, with no violations on the driver's record could
also result in extra driving time being added to the driver's account
(e.g., 15 minutes). With, for example, 120 minutes of safe driving and no
violations, a final test is made, as indicated in decision block 652, to
determine if the driver has also completed all online driving tests. If
he has, the driver is now eligible for the driving park driver's license
which will enable the driver to access the driving park highway as well
as other restricted driving areas of the driving park. If the driver has
not passed all the online driving tests, he must complete them before
being issued a driving park driver's license.

[0056] FIGS. 6C-6E depict the processing logic for determining which
violation or violations occurred, the points assigned to each violation,
and the corresponding decrement in safety level resulting from the
violation. FIGS. 6C-6E have been simplified to omit the following
additional steps. Each of the driving violations when detected will first
result in setting a current value for driver violation points in the
processing logic to the number of points assigned for the specific
violation. For example, failure to stop at a stop sign will result in the
current violation points being set to 5. If a warning is not issued to
the driver, the current value for driver violation points will be added
to the driving record for the driver. The safety level will also have a
deduction of twice the number of points added to the driver's record. In
some embodiments, the vehicle can also be stopped for a number of minutes
that represents the number of violation points added to the driver's
record. If the driver is issued a warning, and the warning is the first
warning to the driver, the warning will be added to the driver's record.
If the driver is issued a warning, but the warning is not the first
warning, the current value for violation points will be added to the
driver's record.

[0057] FIG. 8 illustrates the processing logic for determining the safety
level associated with a driver in an exemplary embodiment. The processing
logic begins in block 800, as indicated. The current time value is
updated in block 804. A test for the Boolean value of a "First Time"
variable is determined in decision block 808. If "First Time" is true,
processing continues in block 812 where the previous time value is set to
the current time. The driver's safety level is then obtained from the
driver's data record stored in the at least one storage device in the
driving park operations center. The Boolean value of "First Time" is set
to false as indicated in block 820. From either decision block 808 or
block 820, processing continues as indicated in logic block 824 in which
the safety level is set to the current safety level plus the difference
between the current time and the previous time. Then, the previous time
is set equal to the current time as indicated in block 828. As long as
the driver continues to drive the vehicle, the safety level will continue
to increase. In decision block 832, the driver makes a decision to
continue driving on the course or to return the vehicle. If the driver
decides to continue driving, a determination is made in decision block
836 if the driver has driving credits remaining. He can continue driving
the vehicle and the safety level will continue to increase. If the driver
either decides to return the vehicle or if his driving credits remaining
is zero, the processing logic for determining safety level will end. If
the driver runs out of driving credits and fails to return the vehicle, a
violation will be issued by the system and the violation points will be
added to his driving record. The violation can be entered via the police
hand held device or automatically by the system. In the event of a
failure to return the vehicle after running out of driving credits, the
safety level will stop increasing. The driver's record stored in the
driving record database located on the at least one storage device is
updated at the end of the driving session to store the driving credits
remaining and the last safety level. Each time the driver activates a
vehicle in the driving park, the driving credits, safety level, and
violation points are downloaded to the vehicle's onboard microprocessor
and displayed on the vehicle's display console. The safety level process
ends in block 840.

Speed Controller

[0058] FIG. 7 illustrates a circuit diagram for a speed controller that
can be used to control vehicle speed in an exemplary embodiment. The
speed controller includes relays and circuits to set and change the speed
in the vehicle, to activate and stop the vehicle, and to activate the
light on the vehicle. The speed controller is connected to the onboard
processor.

[0059] Embodiments of the invention have been described as
computer-implemented processes. It is important to note, however, that
those skilled in the art will appreciate that the mechanisms of the
embodiments described are capable of being distributed as a program
product in a variety of forms, and that the invention applies regardless
of the particular type of the non-transitory computer readable storage
media utilized to carry out the distribution. Examples of computer
readable storage media include, without limitation, recordable-type media
such as Compact Flash cards, portable hard drives, diskettes, CD ROMs,
memory sticks, and flash drives.

[0060] The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of
all means plus function elements in any claims below are intended to
include any structure, material, or acts for performing the function in
combination with other claim elements as specifically claimed. Those
skilled in the art will appreciate that many modifications to the
exemplary embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of
the present invention.

[0061] In addition, it is possible to use some of the features of the
embodiments disclosed without the corresponding use of the other
features. Accordingly, the foregoing description of the exemplary
embodiments is provided for the purpose of illustrating the principles of
the invention, and not in limitation thereof, since the scope of the
present invention is defined solely by the claims.

Patent applications in class Monitoring in addition to control (e.g., supervisory)

Patent applications in all subclasses Monitoring in addition to control (e.g., supervisory)